Santa Cruz Police searching for armed robber

Santa Cruz Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a robbery suspect.

On Wednesday, at 3:25 in the morning, a gunman robbed the 7-11 Store at 2429 Mission Street in Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Police Deputy Chief Steve Clark says the suspect entered the store and after a short time asked the clerk for a carton of cigarettes from behind the counter. As the clerk turned around, the suspect was pointing a semi-automatic handgun at him. The suspect walked behind the counter and took the cigarettes from the clerk. The suspect fled the store toward Swift Street.

Detectives have obtained photos from the video surveillance and are asking for the public's help in generating tips.

The suspect is described as: A white male adult, late 20's to Mid 30's, 6 feet , 175 pounds, with a goatee beard and moustache. He has a tattoo on his neck, in calligraphy- style writing. He was wearing dark pants, a blus and white checked shirt, a blue bandanna, and sunglasses.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police DepartmentInvestigations Unit (831) 420-5820. Anonymous tips can also be sent to the police department through theTip Line (831) 420-5995, or from our Website; www.santacruzpolice.com .